Ubuntu Touch just got its biggest update in years, and it didn’t come from Canonical. Instead, UBports, the community-led foundation keeping the mobile OS alive since 2017, has rolled out version 24.04-1.0, the first release based on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS.
Ubuntu Touch 24.04-1.0 brings long-awaited updates
Though much of the work behind 24.04-1.0 focuses on aligning the system with the Ubuntu 24.04 LTS core, UBports didn’t stop there. This update delivers a number of front-facing changes and usability upgrades as well. Here’s what’s new:
- New community-designed logos are the first visual refresh in eight years
- Light Shell mode for those who prefer brighter themes
- Experimental on-device personal data encryption
- Redesigned Phone app optimized for larger screens
- New USB mode settings with support for internet sharing
These additions reflect a clear push to modernize the user experience while staying true to the OS’s Linux-first roots.
Ubuntu Touch 24.04-1.0 supported device list expands
UBports continues to widen its hardware reach. The 24.04-1.0 update supports more than two dozen devices. That includes both community favorites and newer entries like:
- Fairphone 3, 4, and 5
- Google Pixel 3a / 3a XL
- Asus ZenFone Max Pro M1
- Sony Xperia X
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 / 9 Pro / 9 Prime
- OnePlus 6 and 6T
- Rabbit R1
- Xiaomi Mi 9 series
For users already running Ubuntu Touch, there’s a required step: upgrade to OTA-10 for Ubuntu 20.04 first. Only after that patch can you move to 24.04-1.0.
Ubuntu Touch remains a rare alternative in mobile
Canonical may have walked away from Ubuntu Touch years ago, but UBports refuses to let it fade. With this update, the project takes another solid step toward long-term viability on modern hardware. It’s not chasing app stores or mainstream polish, it’s building something different.
For those craving mobile Linux that still respects user freedom, Ubuntu Touch 24.04-1.0 is the signal: this OS still breathes.
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